Aslan Bzhania Takes the "Presidential Oath"

The so-called inauguration of Aslan Bzhania, the new "president" of occupied Abkhazia, was held in Sokhumi today.

The de facto president was sworn in in the conference hall of the de facto presidential administration building. The ceremony took place in a limited circle, without foreign guests due to the COVID-19 quarantine measures.

In his speech, the “president” expressed hope that the work starting tomorrow will help the public to achieve goals to transform and strengthen state institutions, and the sustainable development of the people of Abkhazia.

“The completion of the election campaign gives hope that a new political culture is emerging in our country. In this regard, I would like to thank the presidential candidates. I look forward to working with them in terms of counteracting political extremism and other threats facing the state, and on activities aimed at transforming and strengthening key state institutions within which the preservation and sustainable development of the people of Abkhazia is possible. This is our main goal,” he stated. 

Bzhania named the strengthening and development of comprehensive cooperation with the main ally and strategic partner - Russia - as a priority of Abkhazia's foreign policy. 

"In accordance with the agreements, we will conduct more intensive work with fraternal Russia on all aspects of bilateral, equal and mutually beneficial cooperation,” he said.

The presidential election in Georgia’s occupied region Abkhazia was held on March 22. It was won by Aslan Bzhania with 56.5% of the vote. 35.42% voted for Ardzinba, 2.22% for Dzapshba, and 1.75% against.

By Mariam Merabishvili

Photo source: Abkhazinform.com